Summary

Poplar energy crops have been extensively studied throughout North America for over half a century and are one of many alternative feedstocks contributing to energy security. Building on work that began in late 1960s, Forest Service scientists and their partners have completed extensive studies that tested the genetics, physiology, and silviculture of poplar crops in a regional network of field trials first established in 1995. They are currently studying the carbon implications of 10- and 20-year-old plantations throughout the Midwest. They have analyzed biomass, rooting, and other important traits from hundreds of genotypes grown throughout the northern United States, as well as tree growth regulating mechanisms in the face of varying environments and changing climate. These results are currently being used to increase the energy potential of the trees and increase the efficiency of plantation establishment, which help meet U.S. energy demands.